Unwrap Adventure: Giftable Experiences on the Peaceful Side 

Written by: Emily Huffstetler 

Sometimes, the best gifts don’t fit under the tree. They’re the memories you make with the people you love and the stories you’ll tell for years to come. Here are our favorite giftable experiences on the Peaceful Side. 

For the Outdoor Adventurer: A Day Out with Smoky Mountain Guides 

Smoky Mountain Guides offers guided day hikes for all levels, small-group tours, guided backpacking trips, flatwater kayak tours and guided fly fishing in some of the most scenic corners of the Smokies. Their expert guides handle the logistics, while sharing local history and ecology along the way. 

Turn it into a gift: Book an adventure they’ll love and tuck the confirmation into a new pair of hiking socks. 

For the History Buff: A Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center Membership 

The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center is the perfect for anyone who loves local history and Appalachian culture. A membership unlocks unlimited museum admission, free entry to special events like Winter Heritage Fest, Kids Day and the Blue Ribbon Country Fair, plus select concerts, discounts and invitations to member-only happenings. 

Turn it into a gift: Choose an Individual, Dual or Family membership and tuck the confirmation into a local history book. 

For the Beauty Guru: A Facial at Brooke Nix Medical Aesthetics 

Brooke Nix Medical Aesthetics in Maryville turns skincare into a relaxing treat. Guests can choose from a variety of facials and customize the experience with add-ons like a 20-minute face massage, hydration mask, eye and lip treatments, dry brushing, a scalp massage or a soothing hand treatment. It’s an excellent experience for that person who deserves a quiet hour to unwind. 

Turn it into a gift: Pick up a gift card for a facial and include a note to choose their favorite add-on. 

For the Athlete: A Friendly Match at Pickleville Tennessee 

Pickleville Tennessee is East Tennessee’s new go-to spot for pickleball, with climate-controlled indoor courts, outdoor courts, a rooftop lounge and plenty of space to hang out between games. Whether they’re new to the sport or already a pro, it’s a great place to play a friendly match, join open play or take a lesson. 

Turn it into a gift: Reserve a court for your crew and pair the confirmation with a new paddle. 

For the Artist: A Class at Creative Spark Studio 

Creative Spark Studio in Maryville is a DIY art studio where you can drop in for “Art Any Time” projects like string art, alcohol ink tiles, acrylic pours, rock painting, pottery painting and glass fusing, or sign up for a specialty class or workshop. It’s an all-skills-welcome space that makes it fun to try something new. 

Turn it into a gift: Purchase a class or studio gift card and tuck it into a nice sketchbook. 

For the Golfer: A Round at Wild Laurel Golf Course 

Wild Laurel Golf Course in Townsend is a public 18-hole course tucked into a quiet valley on the Peaceful Side. The course is Audubon International Certified and uses environmentally sound practices, from native wildflower habitat for pollinators to reduced irrigation and water-quality protection. They also have a spacious tavern to unwind after your round. 

Turn it into a gift: Book a tee time for 9 or 18 holes and pair the confirmation with a new hat. 

For the Glamper: A Stay at Little Arrow Outdoor Resort 

Little Arrow Outdoor Resort in Townsend blends Smoky Mountain scenery with cozy comforts. Guests can choose from cabins, glamping tents, tiny homes, Airstreams and RV sites, all with easy access to the river, pool and hot tub, clubhouse and community firepits. 

Turn it into a gift: Book a weekend camping trip and tuck the confirmation into a campfire mug. 

For the Foodie: Dinner at RT Lodge 

RT Lodge in Maryville is a boutique lodge tucked into the Maryville College woods, and its on-site restaurant was recently recommended in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide to the American South. It serves a seasonal menu with Southern and Appalachian influences. 

Turn it into a gift: Make a dinner reservation and tuck the confirmation into a card for a future evening.  

Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.